Once Below Joy is an alternative 'wizard' progressive rock band based out of Charlotte, NC. that started in 2022. After much practicing and writing, they went to the Wav Lab in Fort Mill and recorded their first EP containing 5 original songs titled "Through the Fog" in early 2023. The latest release from the band the single "80 Cycles Around the Sun" which will be part of an upcoming EP to be released before the end of the year.

They are fortunate to have played many of the awesome venues in the area and were voted Best New Band of 2023 in Charlotte by the readers in the Queen City Nerve’s Best in the Nest series. They were also named as a Favorite New Band on Eddie Trunk's "Trunk-Nation" program on Sirius FM. Their influences are the great classic and progressive rock bands, like Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Rush, Yes and Black Sabbath but the sounds of modern bands such as Coheed & Cambria, Queens of the Stone Age, and The Mars Volta are evident as well. 

The band's style is what they proudly call 'Wizard-Prog'. Having a fascination of Fantasy things such as D&D, movies like Lord of the Rings, and online gaming like Skyrim or World of Warcraft influences their lyrics and music. As a part of their energetic live performances, they dress up as "rock wizards" which has led many fans to do the same and makes for a great show experience.  

Initially called "The Doughboys" due to Jesse, Skylar, and Austin working a pizza job together, the name did not fit when drummer Wyatt Fregerio came along. Searching for a new name, Once Below Joy was born out of circumstance. Band practices were held at Wyatt’s house in a room located under the living area of his grandmother whose name is Joy. The noise factor was too much so grandma gave them the boot and they relocated to a basement. Since they were literally "Once Below Joy" the name kind of naturally materialized. 

An interesting fact is that Jesse was initially the lead vocalist but they discovered Wyatt had some vocal ability as well. No one (including Wyatt) knew he could sing until one practice session when he gave an example of a song. They decided both he and Jesse should handle vocals giving more flexibility for their songwriting. And also, Wyatt did not know who Geddy Lee was until after shows, people kept telling him that was who he reminded them of. 

The band's goal is to have fun playing music and provide a quality show while being a solid supporter of the music community. If more evolves, they will cross that bridge when they get there.

The official lineup includes: 

Jesse Griesman (rhythm guitar, vocals, synth) Fort Mill, SC

Wyatt Fregerio (drums, vocals)  York/Rock Hill, SC

Skylar Wade (bass) Tega Cay, SC

Austin Collins (lead guitar) Tega Cay, SC